Friends–
Take a look at this from the Sydney (Australia) Morning Herald: http://www.smh.com.au/national/health/laughter-and-music-better-than-drugs-for-dementia-patients-20130802-2r4w9.html
In a three-year study they found a weekly dose of songs and laughs, clowns and humor helped as much as psychotropic drugs and anti-depressants, in reducing aggression and depression.
Worth a try in the northern parts, too, yes?
(Oh, and be sure to watch the video too–some good hints about how to do this with your elder!)
:- Doug.